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IT Band Friction Syndrome and Greater Trochanteric Bursitis

Iliotibial band (ITB) friction syndrome and greater trochanteric bursitis (GTB) are typical overuse conditions frequently observed in individuals that participate in running and bicycling. Both conditions are usually associated with repetitive hip and knee flexion (bending) and extension (straightening).

Anatomy

The ITB is composed of fibrous connective tissue which extends from the lateral hip downward, crossing the knee joint on the lateral side before inserting into the front and outside of the shin bone (tibia). The muscles that insert into the upper portion of the ITB are the gluteus muscles posteriorly (back) and laterally, and the tensor fascia lata anteriorly (front) and laterally. Tightness, secondary to weakness in these muscle groups, may be a contributing factor in symptoms of both ITB friction syndrome and GTB.

In simple terms, the ITB can be viewed as a large rubber band extending from the lateral hip to the lateral leg, which functionally crosses two joints, the hip and the knee. It is believed that the repetitive rubbing of the ITB across the lateral aspect of the knee bones causes the inflammatory response and pain.

The greater trochanteric bursa is a fluid-filled sac that essentially serves to lubricate the gluteus medius muscle as it inserts into the bony prominence of the lateral hip, called the greater trochanter. This facilitates fluid movement of the gluteus medius during function.

Signs and Symptoms

ITB friction syndrome is an achiness or pain typically found over the lateral (outside) aspect of the knee. The onset of this pain usually occurs toward the middle or end of running or bicycling. It is not unusual for the pain or achiness to continue for some time after completion of the exercise.

Symptoms of GTB are usually noted over the lateral aspect of the hip. Similar to ITB friction syndrome, achiness and pain is usually evident toward the end of running or bicycling, although the symptoms may persist well after conclusion of the exercise.

Potential Predisposing Factors

Excessive bow-leggedness (genu varum)

Insufficient strength of core muscles such as the glutes and abdominals